post-operative

Post-operative describes the phase after an operation during which your dog is monitored and specifically cared for until wound healing is complete.

How long does the post-operative phase last?

The post-operative phase begins directly after the procedure and lasts until full healing, usually 10 to 14 days. The first 24 hours are the most critical.

During the first 2–4 hours, your dog wakes up from anaesthesia. Body temperature can drop by 1–2 degrees during this time, which is why heat blankets or lamps are used. Some dogs appear disoriented or feel nauseous.

What happens in the first hours after surgery?

Your dog is continuously monitored: pulse, breathing and temperature are checked every 15 minutes. With larger procedures, a venous access line is often left in place, through which painkillers or fluids can be administered.

Your dog usually receives pain medication during the operation, often metamizole or meloxicam. The effect lasts 12–24 hours. This is followed by oral painkillers for 3–5 days, depending on the procedure.

What complications can occur?

Wound infections show as warm, swollen or pus-smelling areas around the suture. They occur in about 2–5% of all operations and usually require antibiotics.

More dangerous is wound dehiscence: the suture bursts open. This happens especially if dogs jump or play too early. With abdominal operations, this is an emergency.

Some dogs react to anaesthetic drugs with persistent tiredness or digestive problems. This usually normalises within 48 hours.

How do I recognise that something is wrong?

Your dog often eats little on the first day after surgery; this is normal. However, if it completely refuses food for longer than 24 hours, you should contact the vet.

Heavy panting, shivering or restlessness may indicate inadequate pain management. The same applies if your dog excessively licks the surgical site despite wearing a collar.

If behavioural changes such as apathy persist for longer than two days, a check-up is also necessary.